The Steel Skyline event brought Duraludon, the imposing Steel/Dragon-type from Gen VIII, to Pokémon GO on September 30, 2025. This skyscraper-inspired Pokémon debuts exclusively through Max Battles, offering trainers a fresh challenge and the exciting opportunity to hunt its shiny form. Whether you’re a competitive battler or shiny collector, this guide covers everything you need to capture Duraludon.
Table of Contents
Pokémon GO Duraludon Quick Stats
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Steel/Dragon |
| Release Date | September 30, 2025 |
| Availability | 4-Star Max Battles, Trading |
| Shiny Available | Yes (1/64 odds) |
| CP Range | 1,674 – 1,753 (Level 20) |
| Best Counters | Fighting & Ground types |
| Attack Stat | 239 |
| Max Battle Cost | 800 MP |
How to Obtain Duraludon
Method 1: Four-Star Max Battles
The primary method requires participating in 4-star Max Battles, Pokémon GO’s newest raid-style feature. Here’s what you need to know:
Entry Cost: 800 Max Particles (MP) per attempt, only deducted upon successful completion
Battle Requirements: Duraludon’s Steel/Dragon typing creates a unique weakness profile. Ground- and Fighting-type attacks deal massive damage, making these your top choices:
- Gigantamax Machamp: The ultimate counter with Fighting-type Max Moves
- Dynamax Machamp: Excellent alternative if Gigantamax isn’t available
- Urshifu: Rapid Strike or Single Strike forms both excel
- Eternatus: Dragon-type coverage with strong stats
After defeating Duraludon, you’ll enter the catch phase where it appears at Level 20 with CP ranging from 1,674 (minimum IVs) to 1,753 (perfect 15/15/15 hundo). Unlike traditional raids, Max Battles don’t offer weather-boosted encounters.
For detailed Max Battle strategies, visit our Pokémon GO raid guides.
Method 2: Trading
Can’t access Max Battles? Trading offers an alternative route. Find a friend who’s caught Duraludon and negotiate an exchange. Keep in mind:
- High Stardust Cost: Legendary trades require significant Stardust investment
- Best Friend Bonus: Reduces costs but remains expensive
- IV Reroll: Traded Pokémon receive random IVs based on friendship level
Shiny Duraludon: Your Lucky Break
Yes, Shiny Duraludon is available immediately upon release! The gleaming variant features altered coloring with 1/64 (1.5625%) shiny odds per encounter—significantly better than the standard 1/500 wild encounter rate.
This boosted rate makes the Steel Skyline event prime time for shiny hunting. Each Max Battle completion gives you another 1.5625% chance, so persistent trainers willing to invest MP will likely secure the shiny form during the event window.
Discover more shiny hunting tips on our Pokémon GO events hub.
Battle Performance & Movesets
Duraludon boasts competitive stats that make it viable for both PvE and PvP content:
Fast Moves:
- Dragon Tail (generates Max Wyrmwind)
- Metal Claw (generates Max Steelspike)
Charged Moves:
- Flash Cannon (Steel-type STAB)
- Dragon Claw (Dragon-type STAB, fast energy)
- Hyper Beam (Coverage, high damage)
Max Move Upgrade Costs:
- Level 1: 400 MP + 70 Candy
- Level 2: 600 MP + 120 Candy
- Level Max: 800 MP + 50 Candy XL
Its 239 Attack stat makes Duraludon a formidable attacker, while decent 185 Defense provides survivability. The 172 Stamina is average but manageable with proper shielding.
Event Timeline
While Duraludon debuted September 30, 2025, during the Steel Skyline event, availability beyond this window remains uncertain. Niantic typically rotates Max Battle bosses, so prioritize capturing Duraludon (especially shiny variants) before potential rotation.
Stay updated with the official Pokémon GO website for event announcements and Max Battle rotations.
FAQs
Q: Can I solo 4-star Max Battles for Duraludon?
A: Yes, but it’s challenging. Solo attempts require maxed-out Fighting or Ground-type counters, preferably with Dynamax or Gigantamax capabilities. Gigantamax Machamp is the optimal solo choice due to type advantage and Max Move power. Most trainers find 2-3 player groups more reliable for consistent victories. Having at least one Gigantamax Pokémon in your team significantly improves solo success rates.
Q: Will Duraludon be available in raids after the Steel Skyline event ends?
A: Niantic hasn’t confirmed Duraludon’s availability after the initial event period. Historically, Pokémon introduced through special features like Max Battles may rotate out temporarily before returning in future events or standard raid rotations. Your best strategy is catching (and shiny hunting) during the Steel Skyline event. Check the official Pokémon GO blog regularly for announcements about returning featured Pokémon.
